Hot foot it to Radcliffe Dance-off

It’s nearly time to tango, waltz or boogie on down to the big annual Radcliffe Dance-off!

Now in its fifth year, this celebration of music and dance takes place on Saturday 8 June in the town centre at Radcliffe Piazza.

Visitors can expect non-stop entertainment from noon until 6pm, with all styles on display – from ballet and ballroom to modern and break/urban, Latin and belly dance to cheer-leading, line-dancing and morris dancing. Categories include 'groups' and 'singles' heats.

The competition will be judged by professionals in the trade, who will be looking for precision choreography and showmanship, and there are prizes and trophies in all categories.

Among those taking part will be the SDZ Academy, Footsteps Dance School, Jodies Dancers, Freak Dance and many more.

Radcliffe Dance-off is a joint initiative between Bury Council’s town centres team and the Radcliffe Traders Group.

Ruth Shedwick from Bury Council said: "Yet again we have a large number of entries, which shows how popular the event is with local dance troupes. I’m sure that everyone will be very impressed with the talent on display.”

Damien Walsh, secretary of Radcliffe Traders Group and owner of Funtastic Children’s Playcentre, said: “Funtastic Children’s Playcentre on Kenyon Street is proud to be associated with the annual “Radcliffe Dance off” event! From mid-morning until early evening, Radcliffe town centre lights up with a blaze of colour and dance. Thousands of visitors to the town will see what Radcliffe really has to offer, and it’s a great opportunity for the town to shine. Funtastic believes it will be a huge success for Radcliffe as usual. Local business support is vital for events, as the footfall and income it brings to the area really does benefit local business.

“The Town Centre Forums run by Bury Council are a fabulous way of meeting other local businesses, and also a great way to really change what is happening in your town for the better. The Radcliffe Town Team is currently working towards some major environmental improvements which should completely transform the look of our town for the better. Funtastic really recommend joining the group, as the benefits are wonderful not just for the town but also the businesses involved.”

Councillor Jane Lewis, cabinet member for leisure, tourism and culture, said: “The Danceoff is a great event, which shows Radcliffe at its best, and shows how innovative events in this borough can be. I hope that all participants and visitors have a fantastic day.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 14 May 2013.

Picture opportunity: Reporters/photographers will be very welcome at the dance-off, which runs from noon to 6pm on Saturday 8 June at Radcliffe Piazza.